Microsoft has refuted claims that it uses data from Microsoft 365 apps like Word and Excel to train its AI models. The company clarified that the "Connected Experiences" feature, which has been on by default since 2019, is not used for AI training but rather to enhance productivity features such as co-authoring and grammar suggestions. Users can manage these settings to control their data usage. Microsoft emphasized that its AI features in Microsoft 365 rely on simpler machine learning algorithms, not large language models.
A dataset of one million public posts from the social media platform Bluesky was scraped and uploaded to AI company Hugging Face for machine learning research, sparking controversy over user consent and data privacy. The dataset, which included user identifiers and metadata, was removed after backlash. Bluesky, which operates on an open and decentralized protocol, is exploring ways to allow users to communicate consent for data use to third-party developers.
Cybersecurity firm McAfee has identified 15 malicious 'SpyLoan' apps on Android devices, downloaded by over 8 million users, which pose a global threat by accessing sensitive information and potentially leading to extortion and financial loss. These apps, disguised as quick loan providers, have been reported to Google, with some removed from the Play Store. Users are advised to scrutinize app permissions, verify developer credentials, and report suspicious apps to authorities to protect their data and privacy.
Bluesky's open API allows third parties to scrape public user data, which can be used for AI training, as demonstrated by a Hugging Face researcher who collected 1 million posts for machine learning research. Although the data was removed after controversy, it highlights the public nature of posts on Bluesky. The platform is exploring ways to let users express consent preferences, but enforcement relies on third-party compliance. As Bluesky gains popularity, it faces increased scrutiny similar to other major social networks.
Bluesky has stated it will not use user posts for AI training, but a recent incident where a Hugging Face employee scraped and published data from 1 million Bluesky posts highlights the challenge of enforcing this policy. Although the data was removed and the employee apologized, the incident underscores the difficulty in preventing third parties from using such data for AI purposes. Bluesky is exploring ways to allow users to specify consent for AI training, but ultimately, it will depend on external developers to honor these settings.
Apple's new iOS 18.1 includes a security feature that reboots iPhones after four days of inactivity, entering a 'Before First Unlock' state that requires a passcode to access the device. This makes it more difficult for law enforcement to unlock iPhones, as it limits data extraction capabilities. The move is part of Apple's ongoing efforts to enhance device security, despite tensions with authorities over encryption and potential backdoor access.
Consumer Reports has developed an app called Permission Slip that assists users in regaining control over their personal data online. The app facilitates the process of requesting companies to either stop selling user data or delete it entirely, depending on state legislation and company policies. Users can sign up with their email and choose actions for each company that may have their data. While Permission Slip submits requests on behalf of the user, some direct confirmation with the companies may be required, and patience is advised as the process may take time.
Google has settled a $5 billion lawsuit accusing the tech giant of misleading users by tracking their internet activity even when using "incognito" mode. The lawsuit claimed Google violated federal wiretap laws by collecting data through Google Analytics despite users' expectations of privacy. The settlement details remain undisclosed, but the case highlights the complexities of online privacy and user consent, especially regarding what incognito mode does and does not protect against.
